What To Do When Your Favourite All-Inclusive Feels Out Of Reach
Ikos Resorts have long been the number one choice for so many of our clients, couples, families and multi-generational groups alike. And it isn’t hard to see why. The winning formula? Elegant modern styling, genuinely outstanding service, and an all-inclusive concept that truly feels luxurious: à la carte dining, branded drinks, 24-hour room service, excellent kids’ clubs and even a driver to explore the local area.
And for us, it’s personal too. My son got married at Ikos Olivia so it will always have a special place in our hearts. Before the grandchildren were in school, it was our favourite family retreat, a chance to relax, recharge and create the most wonderful memories together.
“But Let’s Be Honest, The Price Has Crept Up…”
Especially during school holidays, costs can feel eye-watering. For summer 2026, a 7-night stay at Ikos Olivia in a one-bedroom family suite with flights can start around £12,000 for a family of four. And popular properties like Ikos Dassia or Ikos Aria can easily exceed this for peak summer dates.
I completely understand the dilemma, and you’re not alone. A recent survey found that 7 in 10 Brits are actively looking for ways to cut holiday costs. And I hear it from clients all the time.
Gilly Bachelor
“We Love Ikos, But We Just Can’t Make It Work This Year.”
The good news: there are ways to keep the Ikos magic, or find something beautifully similar. Nothing is quite like Ikos, but with smart planning, there are ways to make it more affordable, or to find carefully chosen alternatives that still deliver genuine luxury.
Our Top Practical Tips:
- Book as early as possible: Ikos usually opens bookings around 16–18 months ahead, and the best-value family suites and entry-level rooms sell quickly. Early booking discounts of around 10–15% often apply. These disappear as the hotel fills.
- Be flexible on travel dates: Even shifting your stay by a few days, like flying midweek instead of Saturday –Saturday, or coming home a day before the last Friday of the holidays, can save hundreds on both flights and hotel rates.
- Choose the best-value Ikos properties: We often find Ikos Oceania is the most competitively priced within the group, but right now we’re also seeing very encouraging prices for the brand-new Ikos Kissamos in Crete. For example, May half-term starts from around ~£5,000 for a family of three, a huge saving compared to the main summer weeks.
- Look at shoulder weeks: If your children’s school breaks up earlier in July or goes back later in September, those weeks can cost thousands less. Similarly, May half-term or the very end of August often come in far cheaper than early/mid August.
Open To Alternatives? You Do Have Options!
If you’re willing to look beyond Ikos, we’ve carefully researched and handpicked a list of genuinely five-star all-inclusive resorts across Greece, Turkey and Spain that still offer:
- A la carte dining (not just buffets!)
- Branded and/or premium drinks
- Family suites and kids clubs
- Stylish design and attentive service
Yet often saving £4,000–£8,000 compared to Ikos for the same school holiday week.
These aren’t budget hotels, they’re still quality resorts where you can expect a beautiful setting, delicious food and the little touches that make a holiday feel special.
“What’s The Bottom Line#?”
Ikos really is special, I feel that deeply myself, but it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing choice. Whether you choose to stay loyal to Ikos or explore carefully selected alternatives, my role is to help you keep the luxury and the memories, while making sure you get the very best value for your money.
Gilly Bachelor
However, if you’re looking for similar destinations, we provide more recommendations that you can find here.
Looking to add a little luxury to your next trip? Let us take out the stress of planning so you can lavish in absolute luxury. Give us a call on 01902 288104, send us a message, or book a travel planning meeting today!